Google Maps is implementing "the biggest update in over a decade" to the driving experience with Immersive Navigation, which redesigns visuals and offers "more intuitive navigation."

This starts with a "live 3D view" reflecting the buildings, overpasses, and terrain around you. Google Maps will highlight lanes, crosswalks, traffic lights, stop signs, and other critical road details to help you navigate safely while making turns or changing lanes.

Google Maps is rolling out a conversational 'Ask a Question' chat feature.

Google will show a broader view of your route to help you "prepare for your next move." This includes smart zooms and transparent buildings before challenging turns and lane changes.

Helper visuals will be paired with more natural voice directions like, "Pass this exit and take the next exit for Illinois 43 South."

Google Maps uses Gemini for spatial understanding. The models are used to analyze fresh, real-world images from Street View and aerial photos to provide an accurate view of things like places, icons, and medians along your route.

Maps will now inform you of changes for alternative routes, such as "a longer trip with less traffic or a faster trip with a toll road."

Additionally, we will inform you about real-time disruptions along your route, such as roadworks and accidents - supported by our community of drivers contributing more than 10 million updates daily.

Before you start, Google will give you the option to "preview your destination and surroundings with Street View images and receive suggestions on where to park."

As you approach, Maps will highlight the building entrance, nearby parking areas, and which side of the road you should be on - so you can safely navigate from the last turn to the front door.

Immersive Navigation is starting to roll out today in the US. Google states that "availability will expand in the coming months for compatible iOS and Android devices, CarPlay, Android Auto, and vehicles with Google built-in (Android Automotive)."